hey guys I'm launching my Buddy's 28ft boat tomorrow with my 99 350 2wd dually manual and I'm nervous as hell iv never launched a boat before and my truck gets stuck in wet grass he says my rear tires will not go in the water but i know its still going to be wet have you guys used a 2w dually for this job

 

I've rarely seen 4wd needed at a proper ramp to launch the boat. Then again, biggest I've launched was 23' and it was a shallows boat. Once it's in the water, you only have to pull out the trailer. Now getting the boat back out could be fun. Good ramps have traction aids in the ramp, either gravel, rough concrete, or something that even when wet gives some traction. Use low gears, don't be afraid to use the parking brake ( acouple of clicks can slow any rolling but still be overcome by the driveline) and no one cares if you can't get the boat lined up on the first try.

 

How much does the boat weigh? I have a 20ft boat that weighs in around 3,100 lbs. Ive pulled my boat out along with 2 ppl sitting inside of it with no problems at all.

I think you should be ok, even if the boat weighs a good bit. Me and my girlfriend used to use her 2002? 2wd F150 with the same results.

 

Most Boat ramps have ribbs for traction... I dont know how the boat trailer is, I have seen guys with there exhaust in the water. It sounds cool to... But never seen one stuck or spinning.

If you did get stuck, the boat is right behind you, and could be used to push you up and out. LOL

 

Launch Ramp Fun

 

You should be fine... take your time and have friends watch for you. Here is the right way to launch a boat (36' Grandy White).

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R6tbABRT1sA


Here's an example of how NOT to launch a boat:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GUuUNahj--o

 

The final statement says it all!

 

Yes the 2wd can get stuck on wet grass without even trying, but the grooved concrete at the ramp is a different story. How many times have you lost traction on wet pavement?

You've got a stick, just use granny gear and you'll be fine.

 

The only time I've ever had traction issues at a boat launch was a boat ranch obvously designed by an idiot. It was smooth (tiny ribs) concrete, steep and short. It had a little slime/weeds on it was partially wet.

I'd say you should be fine even if the tires get wet.

 

That Cummins in the 36ft. launch video sounded AMAZING! I wish Ford would just dump the idea of their own PS Diesel and source in a Cummins.